Industrial scale automated systems can be used to provide authentic learning experiences for students. Skill sets needed to design and build automated systems are essential to our national economy. However, students often have limited access to equipment due to limitations in available lab time and available equipment. This paper describes the design of three web-based automated systems (material sorting system, pick-and-place automated system, and remote-control of robot system) and preliminary evaluation of the systems. Preliminary findings include 1) students seemed interested and intrigued by the set up; 2) there is a time-delay between the control action and the image being presented over the webcam; and 3) students want more time to use the system. Future directions include evaluating instructional effectiveness, identifying which aspects of the experience help students learn, and determining optimal time frames for completing assignments.
Dr. Sheng-Jen ("Tony") Hsieh is a Professor in the Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution and a member of the Graduate Faculty at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX. His research interests include automation, robotics, cyber-manufacturing and Industry 4.0; optical/infrared imaging and instrumentation; micro/nano manufacturing; and design of technology for engineering education. He is also the Director of the Rockwell Automation Laboratory at Texas A&M University, a state-of-the-art facility for education and research in the areas of automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 systems. He was named Honorary International Chair Professor for National Taipei University of Technology in Taipei, Taiwan, for 2015-21. Dr. Hsieh received his Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX.
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